Jul
29

By

Chemistry vs. Sexual Assault: A Date-Rape-Drug-Detecting Skin Sticker

Category: Core77

It’s disturbing that something like this even had to be invented, but this is the world we live in. Researchers at South Korea’s Sungkyunkwan University have developed a skin-borne sticker that can detect Gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB), a drug used to spike people’s drinks for the purposes of robbery or sexual assault. When ingested, GHB—which is colorless and tasteless—puts victims in an intoxicated stupor.

Currently, GHB test strips exist, but these can take up to two minutes to indicate the presence of GHB. The tattoo-like sticker developed by the researchers, however, is instantaneous.

The wearer dips their finger in their drink and places a droplet on the sticker. In the presence of GHB, it turns red—and remains that way for up to 30 days, which could prove beneficial as proof in criminal proceedings.

It should be noted that the sticker detects GHB only and not Rohypnol, another drug abused for the same purpose. There’s no word on whether a Rohypnol-detecting sticker is in the works.

Perhaps in future, nightclubs will present these stickers to patrons at the door, in place of a stamp. The researchers way the stickers are easy and inexpensive to manufacture, and “could be commercially available soon.”

Jul
29

By

10 Best Clever Gadgets & Tools To Upgrade Your Remote Work Setup

Category: YankoDesign

Remote work has opened the door to unprecedented freedom, but it’s also reshaped our expectations for how—and where—we get things done. Today’s most effective workspaces aren’t measured in square footage, but by the imaginative tools that make productivity feel effortless, no matter where you set up shop. From pocket-sized PCs to task-focused accessories, the right gadgets can transform even the most temporary desk into a creative hub.

We have curated a collection of ten clever gadgets and tools designed for remote workers who crave more than just the basics. Each product is a smart design, blending portability, versatility, and a touch of delight into your daily workflow. Whether you’re a digital nomad, a home office enthusiast, or someone who jumps between coffee shops and boardrooms, these picks will help you work smarter, stay inspired, and truly make the most of working from anywhere.

Why You Need To Upgrade Your Remote Setup

Upgrading your remote setup with clever tools and gadgets transforms the way you work—no matter where you’re working from. Innovative accessories and portable tech can streamline your workflow, reduce distractions, and help you stay organized. When your setup includes thoughtfully designed devices—like portable scanners, compact PCs, or space-saving organizers—you’re able to tackle tasks more efficiently and keep your workspace clutter-free.

The right gadgets and tools add convenience, of course, but they also boost comfort, encourage focus, and even add a sense of delight to your day. Investing in smarter tools means creating an environment that adapts to your needs, helps you stay productive, and ultimately makes remote work more enjoyable and sustainable.

1. OrigamiSwift Mouse

The OrigamiSwift Mouse offers us the best of functional, mobile design. Inspired by the art of origami, this folding Bluetooth mouse transforms from a flat, pocketable accessory into a full-size tool with a simple flick. For remote workers constantly on the move, the OrigamiSwift delivers the feel of a traditional mouse without the bulk, making it ideal for laptop warriors and digital nomads alike.

It’s not just about portability—this mouse offers a tactile, ergonomic experience that rivals its non-folding counterparts. Weighing in at just 40 grams, it’s practically weightless, yet sturdy enough for hours of editing or design work. Instant activation and a comfortable grip make this mouse the perfect travel companion for those who refuse to compromise productivity for convenience.

Click Here to Buy Now: $79.00

What we like

Ultra-portable design.
Ergonomic despite folding design.

What we dislike

It may take time to adjust to the flat profile.
Not suited for heavy gaming.

2. MicroPC 2

The GPD MicroPC 2 is the kind of tool that feels like it was built for the digital explorer—someone whose office isn’t a room, but wherever a network cable fits or Wi-Fi floats. With its sturdy, six-inch body, the MicroPC 2 doesn’t just survive travel—it thrives on it. The Celeron N4100 has been retired for a snappier N250 chip, and 16GB of LPDDR5-4800 RAM ensures you can run a dozen terminals without a hiccup. This is more than a computer; it’s a portable command post.

What makes the MicroPC 2 special is its unapologetic embrace of utility. A full COM port, modular PCIe storage, and a keyboard built for real typing give it an edge that’s rare in pint-sized PCs. The MicroPC 2 is perfect for field engineers, cybersecurity pros, or anyone who needs real computing muscle in a bag – it is hard to beat.

What we like

Rugged, travel-ready design.
Full suite of ports for professionals.

What we dislike

Niche appeal.
Potentially short battery life.

3. Wi-Fi HaLow

Reliable internet is the foundation of successful remote work, but standard routers have their limits. The Wi-Fi HaLow router changes the game with a connectivity radius stretching nearly ten miles. Designed for those who work in unconventional spaces—rural homes, large properties, or even outdoor setups—it ensures you stay connected where regular Wi-Fi falters.

The router leverages Sub-GHz frequency waves and opens up a new world of long-distance work and communication. It successfully brings a mix of long-distance reach and reliable everyday speeds—ideal for emails, browsing, and IoT devices. It’s the kind of upgrade that redefines what “working from anywhere” can mean.

What we like

Massive coverage area.
Coexists with standard Wi-Fi bands.

What we dislike

Not as fast as high-frequency Wi-Fi.
Best suited for specific use cases.

4. Comet Thunderbolt 5 Portable SSD

The era of waiting for file transfers is officially over, thanks to storage solutions like the Comet Thunderbolt 5 SSD. This pocket-sized powerhouse represents a quantum leap in portable storage, offering up to 4TB of space in a form factor smaller than a deck of cards. For creative professionals juggling massive video files, photographers managing thousands of high-resolution images, or anyone who values instant access to their digital library, the Comet eliminates the bottlenecks that once defined file management.

Its Thunderbolt 5 connectivity delivers transfer speeds that make cloud storage feel sluggish by comparison—we’re talking about moving entire 4K movies in seconds rather than minutes. This SSD puts the control—and the speed—back in your hands. It’s a must-have for anyone who juggles large files or values privacy and instant access over waiting for cloud downloads. Seven times faster than standard USB drives, it makes file transfers feel instantaneous.

What we like

Lightning-fast transfer speeds.
Compact, pocketable size.

What we dislike

Premium price point.
Requires Thunderbolt 5 for max performance.

5. MagBoard Clipboard

The MagBoard Clipboard challenges our assumptions about what a note-taking tool can be. Far from the rigid, single-purpose clipboards of old, this innovative design embraces flexibility and creative freedom. Its magnetic and lever system allows you to rearrange, add, or remove pages at will, transforming the humble clipboard into a dynamic workspace for brainstorming, sketching, and organizing thoughts.

The hardcover construction means you can take notes while standing, walking, or working in unconventional spaces—perfect for field researchers, architects, or anyone who thinks better on their feet. Water resistance and easy cleaning make it suitable for outdoor work or messy creative sessions. It invites you to rearrange and remix your thoughts. Pages can be added, removed, or reorganized in seconds, encouraging a looser, more creative approach to brainstorming. Resistant to water and easy to wipe clean, it’s built for real-world messiness.

Click Here to Buy Now: $45.00

What we like

Instantly rearrange and secure notes.
Water-resistant, durable build.

What we dislike

Paper-based—no digital sync.
Limited to 30 sheets at a time.

6. IOCHOW-X1

In a world where physical documents still matter but digital sharing is essential, the IOCHOW-X1 bridges the gap with elegant simplicity. This sleek document camera reimagines the scanning process for remote workers who need to quickly digitize, share, and present paper materials during virtual meetings or collaborative sessions. Unlike bulky flatbed scanners or the awkward dance of photographing documents with your phone, the IOCHOW-X1 offers a refined solution that fits seamlessly into modern workflows.

Its compact design belies its versatility—equally at home in a teacher’s classroom, a designer’s studio, or a consultant’s mobile office. This device includes the ability to eliminate friction when moving between paper and screen. With one click, you’re scanning, sharing, or collaborating, all without a bulky flatbed or awkward phone angles. The IOCHOW-X1 feels like it was made for today’s cloud-powered, always-on work culture, making document sharing effortless.

What we like

Extremely portable.
Instantly digitizes and shares content.

What we dislike

Limited to paper documents.
Requires good lighting for best results.

7. FocusPoint Card Holder

In a time of endless digital notifications and scattered attention, the FocusPoint Card Holder offers a return to intentional, focused productivity. This zinc-alloy desk accessory is designed around a simple but powerful principle—physically visible tasks are more likely to be completed than those buried in apps or hidden in digital lists. The holder keeps your most important priorities literally in sight, transforming abstract to-do items into tangible reminders that can’t be minimized, closed, or forgotten.

Its integrated tray for small office essentials adds practical value while maintaining the clean, minimal aesthetic that makes it suitable for any workspace style. It’s the tactile element that sets FocusPoint apart. Writing out a task list and keeping it visible has a proven psychological benefit, helping you stay on track and get that satisfying sense of accomplishment with every completed task. Plus, its minimalist lines and durable construction give your workspace a touch of understated sophistication.

Click Here to Buy Now: $29.00

What we like

Encourages focused, analog productivity.
Doubles as a desk organizer.

What we dislike

Best for simple tasks.
Cards need to be replaced or restocked.

8. Almo

The Almo beautifully fuses analog comfort and digital convenience, addressing one of remote work’s most persistent frustrations—the gap between handwritten notes and smart reminders. This intelligent notepad recognizes when you write a time next to any note and automatically sets a gentle alert, preserving the tactile satisfaction of pen-on-paper while adding the reliability of digital scheduling. For professionals who think better with a pen in hand but need the dependability of automated reminders, Almo offers the perfect bridge between old-school note-taking and modern productivity demands.

Designed with workspace flexibility in mind, Almo features both a sturdy kickstand and magnetic backing, adapting seamlessly to any environment—from traditional desks to metal filing cabinets. The dedicated pen attaches magnetically to the top, ensuring it’s always within reach for quick jottings or revisions.

What we like

Combines handwriting with smart reminders.
Versatile mounting options for any workspace.

What we dislike

Still a concept design.
May require specific handwriting clarity.

9. Memento Business Card Log

In our rush toward digital efficiency, we’ve lost something valuable—the art of meaningful professional connections. The Memento Business Card Log brings intentionality back to networking by transforming the simple act of exchanging business cards into a ritual of memory-making. Designed to hold up to 120 business cards alongside handwritten notes about each contact, it encourages you to record not just names and titles, but the stories, insights, and personal details that make each meeting memorable.

For freelancers, consultants, and professionals who attend conferences or build client relationships, this tool transforms networking from a numbers game into a practice of genuine connection-building. Its special binding system allows for easy reordering or removal of cards, while the two-point slit design ensures everything stays secure.

Click Here to Buy Now: $35.00

What we like

Combines storage with thoughtful journaling.
Elegant and tactile design.

What we dislike

Manual entry required.
Not as fast as digital contact apps.

10. Levitating Pen 2.0: Cosmic Meteorite Edition

Some tools are purely functional; others transcend their basic purpose to become sources of inspiration and wonder. The Levitating Pen 2.0 Cosmic Meteorite Edition firmly belongs in the latter category, combining practical writing functionality with a sense of cosmic wonder that transforms any desk into a conversation piece. This isn’t just marketing hyperbole—the pen features genuine Muonionalusta meteorite material, connecting you to a 20-million-year-old relic from space.

Its gravity-defying hover at a precise 23.5-degree angle creates a mesmerizing focal point that can serve as both a productivity tool and a moment of meditative calm during busy workdays. Beyond its mesmerizing levitation and spin, the pen is crafted from aircraft-grade aluminum for a premium feel. It’s a fidget-friendly companion during long calls and a conversation starter in any workspace, turning the simple act of writing into something extraordinary.

Click Here to Buy Now: $399.00

What we like

Unique, inspiring design.
Doubles as a stress-relief tool.

What we dislike

Expensive for a pen.
May not appeal to strictly minimalists.

Editor’s Choice: Precision Sakura Metal Puzzle

Sometimes the best productivity tool isn’t about doing more—it’s about taking meaningful breaks that refresh your mind. The Precision Sakura Metal Puzzle offers exactly that kind of restorative challenge, transforming downtime into a meditative exercise in focus and problem-solving. Crafted from mirror-finish stainless steel with an exact 0.004mm gap between pieces, this puzzle requires attention to detail while rewarding patience with Japan’s most iconic floral form.

It is great for remote workers who spend hours staring at screens, as it provides a tactile, analog escape that engages different parts of the brain. Once completed, the sakura becomes a stunning desk ornament that adds elegance to any workspace. The mirror finish catches light beautifully, serving as both a conversation piece and a reminder of your persistence. It’s the kind of challenge that feels rewarding rather than frustrating, making it perfect for those brief moments between meetings or as a wind-down ritual at the end of the day.

Click Here to Buy Now: $299.00

What we like

Provides stress relief and mental stimulation.
Doubles as an elegant desk decoration.

What we dislike

May be too engaging during work hours.
Requires dedicated time to complete properly.

The Future Of Smart Remote Work Is Here

Remote work has evolved far beyond makeshift home offices and borrowed kitchen tables. These ten gadgets and tools showcase a new philosophy of workspace design—one that values intention, mobility, and the small details that make work feel less like work. From the cosmic wonder of a levitating pen to the practical magic of instant file transfers, each tool delivers a new outlook on professional equipment.

The best remote work setups aren’t defined by size or cost, but by how cleverly each element serves your unique workflow. Whether you’re drawn to the tactile satisfaction of handwritten notes or the cutting-edge connectivity of extended Wi-Fi ranges, these picks offer innovation in the most unexpected packages. They transform ordinary moments into opportunities for efficiency, creativity, and genuine enjoyment of your craft. Smart remote work isn’t about having more gadgets—it’s about choosing the right ones.

The post 10 Best Clever Gadgets & Tools To Upgrade Your Remote Work Setup first appeared on Yanko Design.

Jul
29

By

Fyrn Studio Series Turns Manufacturing Offcuts Into Handmade Artful Objects

Category: YankoDesign

The best design stories often start with what most people would consider trash. Those leftover scraps from manufacturing, the offcuts that pile up in workshops, the surplus materials that never quite make it into the final product. Most of this stuff ends up in dumpsters, but occasionally someone sees potential where others see waste.

Furniture manufacturing generates an incredible amount of leftover material that rarely gets a second chance. Aluminum brackets get trimmed to size, leaving behind perfectly good metal that’s just the wrong length. Wood gets cut to specification, creating beautiful offcuts that are too small for furniture but too nice to throw away. The challenge becomes figuring out how to turn these leftovers into something people actually want.

Designer: Fyrn

Fyrn’s Studio Series tackles this problem head-on by transforming their own manufacturing waste into a collection of limited-edition home accessories. Think of it as the company’s creative playground, where designers can experiment with surplus aluminum and wood offcuts from their furniture production. The result is a small but thoughtful collection that proves sustainability and good design aren’t mutually exclusive.

The machined aluminum candle holders are probably the most striking pieces in the series. Available in tall and short versions, these holders showcase the raw beauty of aluminum bracket offcuts with their stepped geometric profiles. The unpolished surfaces and crisp edges highlight every detail of the machining process, turning what could have been scrap metal into something that feels both industrial and refined.

Each candle holder has a satisfying weight that makes it feel substantial rather than decorative. The aluminum develops character over time, and the machined surfaces create texture that’s pleasant to touch. It’s the kind of object that makes you appreciate the material itself, not just what it’s been shaped into. These pieces get milled at Fyrn’s Sparks, Nevada, facility.

The charcuterie board set takes a different approach to upcycling, using premium black walnut and white oak offcuts from Fyrn’s furniture production. These aren’t just cutting boards with fancy marketing; they’re genuinely well-crafted three-piece serving sets with one large board, one plate, and one cube pedestal. The wood shows its grain beautifully, and the proportions feel just right for actual use.

What makes these boards special is how they balance utility with a kind of quiet elegance. They’re substantial enough for serious food prep but refined enough to leave out on the counter. The fact that each set is made from surplus wood adds another layer of appeal for people who like their objects to have stories.

Everything in the Studio Series gets designed, prototyped, and produced in small batches through Fyrn’s collaborative design process. This approach means each piece gets individual attention, from hand-finishing to quality control. The limited production runs also create a sense of exclusivity that appeals to collectors and design enthusiasts who want something not everyone else has.

Using these pieces feels different from handling mass-produced accessories. The candle holders have presence on a table without being flashy, and the charcuterie boards invite you to actually use them rather than just display them. There’s something satisfying about owning objects that started as manufacturing waste but ended up as carefully considered design pieces.

Fyrn’s Studio Series proves that sustainability doesn’t require compromising on aesthetics or quality. By finding creative uses for their own waste streams, they’ve created a collection that feels both responsible and desirable. These aren’t just accessories; they’re examples of how thoughtful design can turn the leftovers of one process into the stars of another.

The post Fyrn Studio Series Turns Manufacturing Offcuts Into Handmade Artful Objects first appeared on Yanko Design.

Jul
29

By

Twelve South’s Minimal MagSafe Charger

Category: Core77

This PowerBug is a handsome, minimal MagSafe charger by Twelve South, a South-Carolina-based tech accessories brand.

It cleanly eliminates the power cable all wireless chargers require, and is ideal for locations with counter-height outlets, like kitchens and bathrooms.

Foldable prongs make it handy for travel. And one less cable to worry about.

That said, it does feature a USB-C port on the bottom, if you need more reach or want to charge two devices at once. The MagSafe surface delivers 15W of charging, while the port provides 20W.

You can of course use it to charge non-Apple devices.

They’re available in white or black and run $50. The extra cable isn’t included.

Jul
29

By

Lib Earth House uses 3D printing innovation with modern design

Category: YankoDesign

There are a lot of changes or shift in perspective and design in the world of architecture over the last few years. One example of this is the Lib Earth House by Lib Work. This innovative home is not just another property on the market. It represents a leap in both design and construction technology, combining sustainability, efficiency, and futuristic aesthetics. With the introduction of 3D printing to home building, Lib Work is one of the groups that is figuring out how to create a modern living space.

Lib Earth House is a project that captures attention from the very first glance. Its exterior design, shaped through advanced 3D printing technology, is both organic and futuristic. The smooth, rounded contours of the house are inspired by natural forms, resulting in a structure that blends harmoniously with its environment. Unlike traditional homes that rely on straight lines and repetitive patterns, this home boasts gentle curves and flowing shapes, making it an architectural statement and a conversation starter in any neighborhood.

Designer: Lib Work

The most groundbreaking aspect of the Lib Earth House lies in its construction process. Utilizing a large-scale 3D printer, Lib Work can create the main structural elements of the house by layering special concrete material. This approach dramatically reduces construction time compared to conventional building methods. While traditional homes can take months, the Lib Earth House can be assembled in just a matter of days. The precision of 3D printing also means less material waste, which is a significant step toward more sustainable building practices.

Innovation extends beyond speed and sustainability. The 3D printing method allows for intricate and customized design features that are difficult to achieve with standard construction. Homeowners can personalize aspects of their living space, from unique wall textures to built-in furniture, creating an environment that truly reflects their personality and needs. The versatility of the technology ensures that each Lib Earth House is unique, catering to a wide array of aesthetic preferences and functional requirements.

Another key benefit is the energy efficiency designed into every Lib Earth House. The thick, curved concrete walls provide excellent insulation, helping to regulate indoor temperatures throughout the year. This reduces the need for excessive heating or cooling, which translates to lower energy bills and a smaller carbon footprint. The use of environmentally friendly materials in the printing process further underscores Lib Work’s commitment to green innovation. Safety and durability are also top priorities. The robust construction and high-quality materials make the Lib Earth House resistant to earthquakes, fires, and other natural hazards. In a country like Japan, where resilience against natural disasters is a must, this offers homeowners peace of mind.

As interest in sustainable and technologically advanced housing grows, the Lib Earth House stands out as a pioneer. Lib Work’s vision brings together cutting-edge design, rapid construction, and environmental responsibility, all made possible through 3D printing. For those looking to invest in a home that embodies the future of living, the Lib Earth House is a bold and beautiful choice that is setting new standards in the housing industry.

The post Lib Earth House uses 3D printing innovation with modern design first appeared on Yanko Design.

Jul
29

By

from unitree’s R1 to robotera’s L7, humanoid robots act and move more like real people now

Category: Design Boom

Humans or humanoid robots from unitree and robotera?

 

Unitree unveils R1 and Robotera introduces L7, two humanoid robots that act and move more like real people. They are two of the many human-like devices these days that have more degrees of freedom in their movement as well as new technologies installed in them, letting them behave to resemble their living counterparts. Alongside these two, Fourier is also set to release its third model, the GR-3, in August 2025, and the company hints at it being more of a home companion and assistant that can freely move rather than an automated worker in a factory. Their high-performance hardware, real-time control algorithms, and biomimetic joint systems allow them to replicate how people move, even more so with increased agility. Unitree R1 has 26 degrees of freedom, enough to give it flexibility in the hips, knees, arms, and torso and make it walk, run, squat, kick, and even do cartwheels or handstands.

 

Usually these require coordination and balance across multiple joints, but in the bipedal humanoid robot’s case, it’s thanks to the joint systems and hardware it comes with. With Robotera L7, it’s similar, and its joints support 360-degree spins, jumps, and street dancing, which are some of the activities that normally require quick limb repositioning and core strength. The model uses quasi-direct drive joints so it can respond faster in terms of movement and reduce its own power loss. These humanoid robots from Unitree and Robotera, to name a few, have motors that can generate lots of rotational force, components that are very much needed to support and quickly move their heavy limbs or body parts, especially when they’re running, doing cartwheels, and springing back up.

all images courtesy of Unitree, unless stated otherwise

 

 

Assistive robotic devices that can balance themselves

 

The humanoid robots from Unitree and Robotera can exercise like people, too. For the former’s R1 model, it uses high-torque actuators to execute sudden shifts in weight and movements, so it can squat or step over obstacles while maintaining balance. L7, on the other hand, can adjust its posture in under 0.1 seconds, which the company says gives it the strength and speed needed to perform heavy-load movements, like jumping or lifting up to 20 kilos, without tipping over. Both devices also run real-time motion control systems to stabilize walking, running, and jumping. The R1 features balance control, while the L7 has protective layers and sensors in its joints to let it feel what’s happening at the moment and immediately adjust itself, if necessary, to stay balanced or keep moving.

 

Unitree and Robotera’s humanoid robots can also see and sense like humans. Unlike people, their visual and spatial awareness is digital and high-tech, with R1’s binocular depth camera and multiple sensors that can detect terrain and obstacles. For the L7, the camera comes with a spherical operational reach using sensors and a wide range of motion in the waist and arms. This allows it to perform delicate tasks like scanning barcodes or drawing curtains, adapting to object position in real time, making the device more ideal for workspaces like factories. They’re not human-like without having conversations with people, so for the R1 model, the team adds a 4-microphone array that lets it locate voices, follow verbal commands, and respond using built-in speakers.

Unitree’s R1 can run and jump like a real human

 

 

Modular design for the robotic body parts

 

The hands and arms of the humanoid robots from Unitree and Robotera are different. The L7 has a motor in each of its fingers with no gears in between, and because of this, it’s easier for it to pick up small tools or parts and use them precisely, just like a human hand. Its arms can sense and react 10 times per second, the company says, which makes it suitable for taking on technical tasks. They can also move in seven different directions, so the robot can reach, twist, lift, or adjust its hand position without moving the whole body. With R1, however, these parts are modular, meaning that it’s up to the owner to attach the extra parts like the arms and hands. 

 

These humanoid robots are customizable and programmable too. With R1, the user can personalize its walking styles, tasks, or AI behavior with either a software development kit or remote programming. L7 has a removable upper body, so in case the owner wants to use it for industrial tasks, they can choose to just use its upper body for automated tasks. Companies have turned their focus into making humanoid robots, like the ones unveiled by Unitree and Robotera, to act more like humans. They have different purposes, including helping in production, assisting people at home, and, possibly, entertaining humans. Research and improvements by the companies are still ongoing, but in the meantime, their current hardware, joint systems, and use of AI make them behave like real people.

Unitree R1 has 26 degrees of freedom, enough to give it flexibility in the hips, knees, arms, and torso

 

R1 robot doing cartwheels and exercises

 

Robotera L7 has motors in each finger, allowing it to move them like real human hands

Robotera L7 is ideal as a manufacturing handy helper

users can use the full body or the robot or only its upper part

 

the bipedal robot at work

 

Fourier is set to release its third model, the GR-3, in August 2025

the soft-looking GR-3 robot from Fourier hints at being more of a companion than a general-purpose assistant

the GR-3 also features animated eyes to make it more human-like

 

project info:

 

models: R1, L7, GR-3

companies: Unitree, Robotera, Fourier | @unitreerobotics

The post from unitree’s R1 to robotera’s L7, humanoid robots act and move more like real people now appeared first on designboom | architecture & design magazine.

Jul
29

By

Handheld device concept wants to bring back portable music players and audio recorders

Category: YankoDesign

While it’s really more convenient now to listen to music on our smartphones, I sometimes miss the days when we had stylish, cute, and great-sounding audio devices. I was already around in the days of Walkmans and CD players, but what I really enjoyed was the era of the iPod, Zune, and other would-be music players. Now we’ve gotten so used to having the apps on our phones that a portable audio device may not seem necessary.

Meet TL-1, a conceptual device that reimagines what a pocket audio companion can be. Drawing inspiration from Teenage Engineering’s bold and playful design language, TL-1 is designed for anyone who loves music and values mindfulness in a world full of screens. With its compact form, tactile controls, and offline functionality, TL-1 is all about making music listening and voice recording intuitive and joyful.

Designer: Hunny Modi

The design renders for this audio player feature crisp lines, minimalist buttons, and signature orange accents that pay homage to Teenage Engineering’s distinctive aesthetic. The device is made to be comfortable in the hand, with a satisfying weight and a knurled rotary dial that invites you to interact in a more analog, screen-free way. Whether you choose the sleek silver or bold black version, it feels like a modern classic (even though it’s still a concept for now).

You might think it has complicated features, but its simplicity stands out. Instead of overwhelming users with endless menus and functions, it focuses on what matters most: listening and creating. TL-1 stores your favorite playlists offline so you can enjoy music anywhere, anytime, without worrying about connectivity or distractions. The tactile buttons and rotary wheel make it easy to browse tracks or adjust settings even without looking at the screen, perfect for those who want to stay present in the moment.

But TL-1 isn’t just a music player. It’s also a reliable voice memo recorder, with a dedicated record button on the side for capturing thoughts, ideas, or moments of mindfulness. The built-in microphone, protected by a stylish metal grille, ensures your recordings are crisp and clear. Whether you’re journaling, brainstorming, or just pausing to reflect, TL-1 is always ready to capture your voice. The playful spirit of Teenage Engineering shines through in every detail. There’s a delight in the way the rotary dial clicks as you scroll, and the satisfying press of the buttons. The interface is minimal, designed to keep you focused on the audio experience rather than notifications or apps. Even the logo on the display adds a touch of whimsy that makes using the device feel fun and approachable.

TL-1 is imagined as a bridge between high-end audio tools and everyday life. It’s for casual listeners who want a dedicated music device without the complexity of pro gear, and for anyone looking to unplug from screens and reconnect with sound. The offline storage and physical controls make it an ideal companion for walks, journaling sessions, or quiet moments at home. By combining music playback and voice recording in a playful, tactile form, TL-1 invites us to listen, create, and be present, one click at a time.

The post Handheld device concept wants to bring back portable music players and audio recorders first appeared on Yanko Design.

Jul
29

By

interview: morocco pavilion’s earth-based, seismic architecture of future at venice biennale

Category: Design Boom

Materiae Palimpsest: Morocco pavilion on craft & construction

 

At the 2025 Venice Architecture Biennale, Morocco’s national pavilion addresses challenges posed by earthquakes across the region by taking an elemental approach to material, memory, and seismic resilience. Titled Materiae Palimpsest, the exhibition takes form as an evocative landscape bridging construction research prototypes with an artistic scenography. We see a cluster of  columns built from natural local materials such as rammed earth, stone, and timber sourced from across Morocco, configured as a series of passageways almost evocative of archaeological ruins – perhaps the aftermath of an earthquake. They all encircle a hologram representing the human condition and ancestral knowledge — ‘It’s intentionally fragile and immaterial, confronting the physical nature of the materials around it,’ Khalil Morad El Ghilali tells designboom.

 

The architect, who co-curated the exhibition with El Mehdi Belyasmine, explains how these structures function as sectional scale models manifesting the duo’s ongoing research into how local construction know-how can be revitalized to shape earthquake-proof architecture. ‘We’ve been gathering around 136 completely different techniques and materialities from all around the country — from the north to the south — that we’ve here integrated into 72 columns. These columns serve as a kind of guide for construction, particularly for architects interested in sustainable development,’ he explains.

all images courtesy of Morocco Pavilion

 

 

celebrating material intelligence at venice architecture biennale

 

Materiae Palimpsest resonates in light of Morocco’s devastating 2023 earthquake. In rebuilding affected rural settlements, Khalil Morad El Ghilali and El Mehdi Belyasmine’s respective practices, and others like them, have demonstrated that heritage-based techniques can perform better than concrete. The architects point out that some of their team’s pilot structures near the epicentre remained undamaged, owing to a combination of local craftsmanship and adapted engineering, rooted in generational know-how. This extends the curators’ approach that is driven by the urgency to reframe ancestral methods as scalable, adaptive, and technically sound alternatives to industrial construction. ‘There are areas without internet, robotics, or digital tools,’ El Ghilali shares with designboom during our visit to the pavilion. ‘So instead of abstract concepts, we aim to improve local crafts through practical upgrades in engineering and architecture, without losing sight of what people can really do at a large scale.’

 

This philosophy grounds the pavilion in a clear critique of contemporary architectural education and practice, which, they note, often privileges conceptual gestures over material literacy. Calls for a broader reflection on how architectural knowledge is produced, El Ghalili adds: ‘Too often today, architects don’t know how to build with their hands. They’re trained to be conceptual rather than constructive.’ He frames revisiting these embodied modes of making is as a return to a collaborative, ground-up process that brings designers back into conversation with materials, with place, and with the people who build, as emphasized by the flickering hologram figure at the center of the space, and the traces of the human hand it confronts as carried in each of the columns. Read our full interview with the architect below.

 

 

interview with Khalil Morad El Ghilali

 

designboom (DB): Can you introduce the idea behind the creation of the pavilion?

Khalil Morad El Ghilali (KMEG): The idea was to sublimate the materiality and showcase the diversity of local construction techniques across Morocco. We’ve been gathering around 136 completely different techniques and materialities from all around the country — from the north to the south — that we’ve here integrated into 72 columns. These columns serve as a kind of guide for construction, particularly for architects interested in sustainable development.

 

This pavilion is one of our latest experiments: we used post-tensioned, prefabricated blocks as a potential solution for rebuilding in earthquake-affected areas. The entire pavilion was also assembled in three days. The blocks are solid, not hollow, and actually the heaviest one weighs 500 kilograms, and yet they were mounted like Lego pieces.

 

 

DB: There are many layers to the scenography, from the this almost ruins-like landscape of columns, to the textiles and the screen at the center. Can you share more about that?

 

KMEG: We’ve divided the scenography into three main elements.

 

The first is the columns, which reflect building, engineering, and architecture. The second is the tools. These are represented by the muqarnas hanging from the ceiling, which were historically used to construct such elements. We sourced them from different villages, and each tool carries the trace of a human hand and an imprint of collective engineering. The third element is the human condition, represented by a hologram. It’s intentionally fragile and immaterial, confronting the physical nature of the materials around it.

 

 

DB: The presence of the hologram was quite unexpected after walking through all these tactile details. What role does it play within the overall composition?

 

KMEG: It raises a question about whether we should keep chasing extraordinary technologies to solve our problems, or whether we should instead ask what we can learn from our ancestors — not archaeologically, but humbly. There’s a vast body of knowledge gathered over thousands of years, and this project is about reconnecting with that wisdom rather than erasing it and starting from scratch.

 

So for us, this pavilion becomes a place of knowledge, collective intelligence, smell, fabric, texture, memory. Like a foyer, a place to gather. It reflects how Moroccans welcome people, how spaces are warm and inviting. Each brick, each tool, each trace carries human intelligence. Confronting these elements — between the artificial and the natural — was very important to us and the main idea of the pavilion.

 

 

DB: Does the hologram, as a symbol for the ‘human condition’, serve as more of a symbolic counterpoint to the raw materials surrounding it, or tie them together?

 

KMEG: For us, it’s a confrontation. The hologram is encased in glass and placed at the center of the room, and above it, we placed some of the heaviest formwork elements, really emphasizing its fragility. But then it’s also symbolically loaded; it’s a memory of what might remain of the human condition in the future if we lose our connection to materiality and making. Maybe that’s all we’ll have left, a memory.

 

The idea is to really highlight the tension between the immaterial and the physical — between where we are headed and what we still have.

 

 

DB: Building on that, what kind of questions do you hope visitors will walk away with? Is the goal to present solutions, or to create space for reflection, or both?

 

KMEG: We’re not trying to offer definitive answers, but rather pose questions. Let people find their own meanings through the combinations of materials we present, like earth from Marrakech, stones from the coastal areas and rivers, earth from central Morocco. These materials allow for different engineering possibilities, including seismic resistance, construction, elevations.

 

It’s really an individual experience, but also a collective one at the same time. The pavilion’s passages ensure that only one person can stand inside a column at a time. We wanted each visitor to directly face the materiality of that individual column, despite the openness of the layout.

 

 

DB: You’ve emphasized that your reference to traditional techniques isn’t nostalgic or archaeological. Can you elaborate on how these indigenous methods can be applied today, especially in the face of environmental challenges?

KMEG: The main contemporary application is earthquake resistance. You probably heard about the earthquake in Morocco two years ago. It affected regions where villages were traditionally built using earth and stone. Unfortunately, many of those techniques have been lost, and what replaced them, like poor-quality concrete, wasn’t adapted to the climate or structural needs.

 

Since then, one of the main questions has been to consider how we can rebuild those villages. And so we’ve been working with local techniques and engineering knowledge. Some of our projects, built near the earthquake zone using these methods, had no damage, and I’ve also been publishing research around this. The idea is to provide technologies that are accessible and replicable, technologies that people can actually assess and use, rather than ones completely out of reach due to the pace of innovation.

 

 

There are areas without internet, robotics, or digital tools. So instead of abstract concepts, we aim to improve local crafts through practical upgrades in engineering and architecture, without losing sight of what people can really do at a large scale. We worked directly with local craftspeople for this, and we built with our hands, with media,

In many ways, this is also a critique of the architectural profession.

 

Too often today, architects don’t know how to build with their hands. They’re trained to be conceptual rather than constructive. We need to bring back the role of the master builder. This pavilion was built by hand, together with craftspeople and media specialists. We wanted to show that design must happen through communication, with those who actually know how to make.

 

 

 

project info:

 

name: Materiae Palimpsest — Morocco Pavilion

curators: Khalil Morad El Ghilali, El Mehdi Belyasmine

 

program: Venice Architecture Biennale | @labiennale

dates: May 10th — November 23rd, 2025

The post interview: morocco pavilion’s earth-based, seismic architecture of future at venice biennale appeared first on designboom | architecture & design magazine.

Jul
29

By

two suspended white wings float around luminous central sphere for oas/s-nest seashore installation

Category: Design Boom

Zhide Architectural Design draws on the image of a bird in flight

 

Installed on the beach at Anaya, OAS/S-NEST is an architectural art installation designed by Zhide Architectural Design as part of the public art initiative ‘Migratory Bird 300.’ The piece is conceived as a temporary seaside theater stage for the 2025 Anaya Drama Festival in Hebei Province, China, with the theme of ‘Sensibility and Sense.’ The work forms part of the recurring OAS/S spatial program, along with OAS/S-NOMAD installation, that links site-specific design with broader themes of movement, return, and cyclical creation.

 

The structure takes its formal inspiration from the image of a bird in flight, employing this reference as a diagram for spatial composition and programmatic layering. The upper portion consists of two suspended white elements framing a central illuminated sphere, which functions as both a focal point and a symbolic ‘core’ of the installation. These components are elevated above ground and appear to float, using lightweight materials to reduce structural weight and visual mass. Beneath this elevated frame is a dense arrangement of geometric mirrored volumes partially embedded in the beach surface. This base, described by the architects as the ‘nest’ structure, is constructed from a modular system of reflective blocks that visually absorb and refract the surrounding environment. The mirrored surfaces allow the installation to reflect light, color, and movement throughout the day, generating a responsive interface between the built form and the changing beach context.

image by 魏溦Wei Wei

 

 

OAS/S-NEST installation acts as a temporary seaside theater stage

 

The project by Zhide Architectural Design Studio uses a combination of lightweight, modular materials that support ease of transport, reassembly, and reuse. This modularity reflects the project’s emphasis on adaptability and its alignment with sustainable construction practices. The installation can be disassembled and relocated, extending its utility beyond the festival while minimizing environmental impact.

 

Spatially, the upper structure introduces an element of elevation and lightness, in contrast to the grounded, angular composition below. Together, these two components form a dual system, visually referencing symbolic notions of emotion and logic, or movement and grounding. A curved plan geometry and the placement of the central sphere define a visual focal point referred to as the ‘drama eye,’ which is further activated through night-time lighting and projection. This ‘eye’ functions as both a visual anchor and a metaphorical interface between audience and installation, emphasizing the work’s role as both a scenic backdrop and a participatory environment. The surrounding beach acts as both stage and public space, inviting viewers to move through, around, and within the structure. The material strategy further engages with environmental context. The mirrored surfaces capture variations in sky, sea, and human activity, producing an ephemeral skin that evolves throughout the exhibition period. Shadows cast by the structure shift over the course of the day, reinforcing the installation’s temporal relationship to its site.

image by 魏溦Wei Wei

image by Zhide Architectural Design

image by 吕晓斌

image by Zhide Architectural Design

image by 吕晓斌

image by Zhide Architectural Design

image by Zhide Architectural Design

image by Zhide Architectural Design

image by The Wethos

image by 吕晓斌

image by 吕晓斌

 

project info:

 

name: OAS/S-NEST

architects: Zhide Architectural Design Consulting (Beijing) Co., Ltd.

lead architects: Zhengdong Li, Rubing Bai

location: Hebei Province, China

photographer: Zhide Architectural Design Consulting (Beijing) Co., Ltd., 魏溦Wei Wei, 吕晓斌, The Wethos

 

 

designboom has received this project from our DIY submissions feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

 

edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom

The post two suspended white wings float around luminous central sphere for oas/s-nest seashore installation appeared first on designboom | architecture & design magazine.

Jul
29

By

selgascano and curtis su envelop % arabica new york café in handcrafted timber cocoon

Category: Design Boom

Selgascano and Curtis Su Wrap small Café in Curved Timber

 

Just opposite the Museum of Modern Art in Midtown Manhattan, New York, Selgascano and Curtis Su Associates carve an immersive café for % Arabica behind a narrow, subterranean storefront. The architects transform the 20-meter-long, 3.7-meter-wide space, sitting one meter below street level, into an enveloping wooden interior, where the architecture folds around the body like a second skin. With a ceiling height of just 2.55 meters, the team embraces the compact proportions, amplifying them through a continuous handcrafted surface that wraps across walls and ceiling like a warm cocoon.

images courtesy of Selgascano and Curtis Su Associates

 

 

horizontal counter divides % Arabica new york midtown interior

 

A 10-meter-long counter that organizes the narrow interior of the % Arabica New York Midtown location, running almost the entire length of the space. This single horizontal element serves to divide the wooden shell into two visual zones. In the area above, Spanish architectural office Selgascano and South Pasadena-based Curtis Su Associates paint the timber white to reflect light and brighten the low ceiling. Below, they retain its natural tone, bringing texture and warmth closer to the body.

 

The extra layer of wood traces the uneven geometry of the existing structure, smoothing its dips, angles, and quirks.  The curving surfaces were scanned, milled, and coaxed into shape. Curtis Su Associates used 3D scanning to map the existing shell and CNC-cut timber panels into continuous curves. These were combined with GRG (glass-fiber reinforced gypsum) to maintain fluid transitions across corners and ceilings. A large mirror by the entrance helps stretch the perspective and gives passersby a brief, disorienting view into the space.

 

From the street, very little reveals what’s going on inside. The facade is left mostly untouched, with cracks, patches, and traces of past use still visible. There’s no big sign or formal entrance, just the % Arabica logo, gently placed, marking the entry into an intimate space.

from the street, very little reveals what’s going on inside

Curtis Su Associates used 3D scanning to map the existing shell and CNC-cut timber panels into continuous curves

the extra layer of wood traces the uneven geometry of the existing structure

a 10-meter-long counter organizes the narrow interior

white-painted timber reflects light and brightens the low ceiling

the continuous handcrafted surface wraps across walls and ceiling like a warm cocoon

a large mirror by the entrance helps stretch the perspective

integrated wall niches provide designated areas for display

the curving surfaces were scanned, milled, and coaxed into shape

 

 

project info:

 

name: Arabica New York Midtown

architects: Selgascano | @selgascano, Curtis Su Associates | @curtissudesign

location: New York City, US

area: 74 square meters (approx. 20 x 3.7 m, height 2.55 m)

 

fabrication, installation: Curtis Su Associates

collaborator: Define NY

client: % Arabica

The post selgascano and curtis su envelop % arabica new york café in handcrafted timber cocoon appeared first on designboom | architecture & design magazine.

« Older Posts
Newer Posts »